Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie Visits Ukraine, Meets Survivors and Pays Respects

The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, has become the first British royal to visit Ukraine since the war began in 2022. During her unannounced surprise visit on April 29, 2024, the Duchess met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska in Kyiv. She delivered a message on behalf of King Charles III, expressing support for the Ukrainian people.

As part of her work championing the UK's Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative and the Women, Peace and Security agenda, the Duchess met with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and torture. She also met with children who were forcibly separated from their families and deported to Russia before being returned to Ukraine. The Duchess expressed her sadness at the human cost of the war, noting that women and girls pay the highest price, with rape being used as a weapon of war.

The Duchess paid her respects to the victims killed during Russia's occupation of Bucha, a town near Kyiv where Russian forces are accused of committing war crimes against civilians. She visited the site of a mass grave and laid flowers at a memorial. The Duchess also visited the historic "Road to Life" bridge in Romanivka, which was a key part of the Ukrainian resistance.

Why this matters: The Duchess of Edinburgh's visit to Ukraine serves as a powerful symbol of the UK's ongoing support for the war-torn nation. It highlights the importance of addressing conflict-related sexual violence and the critical role of women in peacebuilding and recovery efforts.

The UK has pledged over £4.7 billion in non-military support to Ukraine since 2022, including over £660 million in bilateral assistance that prioritizes the needs of women and girls. The UK is also working with international partners to hold those responsible for atrocities accountable. "The UK is steadfast in its support for Ukraine," the Duchess said during her visit. "We stand with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their country and their freedom."

Key Takeaways

• Duchess of Edinburgh first British royal to visit Ukraine since 2022 war
• Met with Zelenskyy, Zelenska, and survivors of sexual violence and deportation
• Paid respects at Bucha mass grave and visited key Ukrainian resistance site
• Visit symbolizes UK's ongoing support, including £4.7 billion in non-military aid
• UK working to hold those responsible for atrocities accountable